CoyMusicaBox

Inspiration - Broadcast

2011-11-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

Road Trip

2011-06-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

Just got back from an amazing road trip, trying to continue that carefree, no plans mode ;) A few shots from upstate New York, Vermont, and Canada

Summer

2011-06-10T10:09:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived!!! I love the energy, the heat and the vacations to come- hope you are all having a wonderful summer!!

2011-05-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

I love this video, so fun and free spirited. Just saw the Flaming Lips in concert for the second time and I just can't get enough-- It is always a great reminder that we are still alive and to dance around and enjoy it--Especially on the Eve of an end of the world prediction!

Spring

2011-03-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Spring! Gotta love it- Luckily, before the monsoon came and knocked off all the beautiful tulip blooms, I was able to visit the botanical gardens and take some shots of the first spring blooms--I just love it there!

Fireflies...

2011-02-24T10:45:00.000-08:00

An illustration a week may be a bit much for me now- so don't be upset if I disappoint you.. :( I will try but I think I may be rushing myself a bit- Anywho, I wanted to share a new illustration that is based on one of my favorite memories from Puerto Rico! Sometimes cameras just can't capture such beautiful moments, maybe an illustration will do. One night, while visiting Las Marias we stepped outside and jumped onto a trampoline. I'd only seen this many stars in the sky one other time, while taking a 13hr overnight bus from Buenos Aires to Mendoza, Argentina. Laying on the trampoline and looking upward at the night sky, I could see the dark outline of palms and tropical leaves, bright stars, and fireflies and shooting stars crossing paths. Listening to creatures scurrying along the forest floor and a waterfall in the distance...

Mermaids

2011-02-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

I love illustration and I really enjoy learning new techniques and styles. I'm going to try and challenge myself to do an illustration every week to track my progress and have a cool poster collection-- my first submission is an illustration I completed for a birthday invite- I tried to give this a mid-century mod feel- I think it turned out really cute... I'm going to try and have the next illustrations inspired from actual events and people I see around town and during my travels-- hope I can keep this up! :)

Action!

2010-12-17T11:58:00.001-08:00

I'm so excited! I just ordered a new toy and I can't wait to experiment with it-- A GoPro HD waterproof video camera-- I thought it would be perfect for my next trip to Puerto Rico! I'm hoping to get some ocean, snorkel, surfing and scenic footage. I've been obsessed with vimeo videos this week, trying to find tips and inspiration. I remembered a video I saw several months ago, not filmed with a GoPro but I just love the music and carefree feeling...

Lou Doillon for Vanessa Bruno S/S 2010

Port of Gold...

2010-11-19T09:10:00.000-08:00

Adding one more Spanish speaking country to my 2010 travels! I can hardly believe my next trip will make 5-- Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Dominican Republic and soon I will be traveling to the Port of Gold! Puerto Rico Baby!! I am going to try and make a habit of traveling to a warmer, tropical destination in the winter! I think it is the greatest idea EVER!! And it definitely makes the winter less harsh! The only problem is finding new warm weather gear for the trip- unless you catch some summer clearance sales...but I've learned they go fast- I missed out on some great JCREW swimsuit deals! So I'm trying to put together the best clothing options with what I have- 10 days- I need a New Years Eve dress, lot's of sandals and swimsuits! HELP! :)

Veggies

2010-11-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

I made a trip to the Atlanta Botanical gardens over the weekend and was really inspired by some new additions. I love this herb wall! How awesome would it be to have a huge collection of herbs displayed like this in your own backyard. I also love the clean design of the salad garden...pictures found on http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/

Chrimmas time...

2010-11-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

Thinking of Christmas already, oops maybe I'm behind?? Hard to tell these days... This year I would like to do things different and give gifts that give back or just things that are more personal- those are the gifts I love and I would love to share them with others.

I found this website today http://krochetkids.org/

They help women in Northern Uganda earn a steady income to lift their families out of poverty by teaching them to crochet. The products on the website are a great price and it is great knowing the money goes back to these women. (images from krochetkids.org)

Slow ride...

2010-08-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

Taking a slow ride to New Orleans... 12hr train ride!! I'm excited, perfect excuse to read some books and take it easy! Can't wait to get there!

Flippin' for this...

2010-08-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

I found this photo collage idea over at designsponge, what a great idea- I really love the cloud images all posted together...left me thinking how I would recreate this- well I do take alot of pictures of Hairflips!!! Take a look...

Red, White and Blue...Check!

2010-07-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

Heading to Helen, GA for some 4th of July fun! I'm hoping to get some tubing in and I've seriously packed only Red, White and Blue clothes for the entire weekend! I just got off the phone with my dad, a customer walked in his office and in the background I could hear him offering a slice of watermelon...I thought- how nice it was to grow up in a small Alabama town where something so simple can lighten anyone's day, and I just love that! I hope we all are offered a slice of watermelon this weekend-Happy 4th Everyone!

Time to Relax...

2010-06-16T13:32:00.001-07:00

Yes! I'm heading out for a few days to RELAX! Off to the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana...xoxo

Dreamy...

2010-06-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

Just found this on Inhabitat-- I love the roof top gardens!

Red Hot

2010-05-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

I remember seeing this video installation during one of my first visits to the MOMA- I have always remembered it and finally found it to share!! I just love the girl in the flowing blue dress and bright red shoes, smashing car windows with a red hot fire poker! I fell in love with these flowers after seeing the video. I've seen them sprouting up all around my neighborhood- I tried to plant some at the first house I rented in Atlanta-- they didn't grow then but now I wonder if they are taking over that yard!! Ooops!

Pipilotti Rist... Ever is Over All

Green thumb

2010-05-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

I just returned from an amazing trip to New York!!! Thanks Ellen for all your hospitality!!! On the trip I realized a connection that has left me so excited! I finally visited the Highline and was so amazed by the idea and noticed that this may be the next thing for me...Landscape Architecture! I can't believe I haven't thought of this before- I love plants, I love design....HELLO!! And every time I travel, my favorite places to explore are public parks and restored/repurposed spaces. Maybe a grad school option in the future! Stay tuned, I'll be posting more pics from our Highline visit...

Home Sweet Home...

2010-05-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

I'm a little obsessed with the idea of living in a micro home. My friends and family probably think I'm crazy, but one day I think it would be awesome!! I was actually looking at teeny house in the Oakhurst neighborhood for a breif minute...until it was ripped away from me. It was so tiny and cute, but the best part---it was selling for $35,000.00, a tiny one-bedroom steal, in the middle of a great neighborhood...anywho, it was sold and I had to move on.

I love dreaming of the possibility to own a non-traditional home one day, super cheap and fitted with space smart, bare essentials- using smart design to conserve and make the most of your space. I came across this awesome 250 sq.ft. home converted from an old garage. It's hard to believe how 250 sq.ft. could look so livable!

Below are pictures from an April 21, 2010 article in the New York times...

Slices

2010-04-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

Just a few ideas for something in the future... I love this sidewalk, I have seen this done inside a restaurant before- but not as an outdoor walkway! I love it!!

Really inspired by these patterns...hmmmm

2010-03-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Just saw AIR in concert last night! Amazing! So French, so sexy! And I'm loving the new album...

Print shop...

2010-03-12T10:53:00.000-08:00

I have so many photos, as I've mentioned before...I have a hard time finding what to do with them- So I'm thinking of setting up a new etsy shop with dreamy prints from my travels- I'm waiting for print samples and still researching the look and name for the shop. In the meantime here is a preview, images from Argentina...

Gaucho Style...

2010-02-19T11:58:00.000-08:00

Back from Argentina and I'm totally blown away, inspired! I loved it and miss it sooo much. I have alot to share, but first a little on some fashion. We fell in love with the Gaucho style while on a horseback trip along the Andes, in Mendoza. Our tour guide, Javier, and a few other gauchos guided us on a breathtaking trail at sunset. We noticed a few key clothing items that really grew on us, the gaucho pants, shoes, and berets! These gaucho pants were pretty popular in all the cities we visited, saggy at the top and skinny along the leg. The gaucho shoes are similar to TOMS, so cute and I grabbed two pairs for about $15 each!

Like this...

2010-02-03T06:35:00.000-08:00

And I'm off to Argentina--See you in 2 weeks!

Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving in a well preserved body but rather to skid broadside in a cloud of smoke thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What A Ride!"

Vacation!!...

2010-01-28T13:51:00.000-08:00

Finally, only a week away and I'll be in Argentina!! I am so ready for a vacation- Today I was walking around at lunch, I saw some police officers on horseback...I started crying!! I was crying because I was so happy and can't imagine that I might be riding horses while taking in the beautiful scenes of the Andes!! Not to rub it in or anything, I'm just so fortunate to have this opportunity! I have been cramming in as much as I can to prepare for the trip- travel guides, brushing up on spanish( ehh, not so much!)...Guess we will be going with the flow, but we have decided to visit beaches in Uruguay, Buenos Aires and Mendoza, Argentina...And whatever else comes our way!!

Birthday Tulips!!...

2010-01-24T11:53:00.000-08:00

A few pictures of my birthday tulips- thanks Susan, Michael, Dali and Beans! These tulips were so gorgeous and smelled like honey-- I never knew tulips smelt so good!!

A little tango please...

2010-01-11T14:16:00.000-08:00

Sooooo......Ahhhhhhhh!!! I'm finally going to Argentina BABY!! I bought a ticket (Happy Birthday to me!) on a bit of a whim last week and just gonna do it and hope all works out! I have dreamed of this moment for a few years now and I can't even believe it is happening! I'm meeting one of my best friends and we are gonna explore Buenos Aires and possibly venture over to Uruguay, our plans are up in the air right now. I can't wait to walk the streets and hear guitars, accordions, sounds of tango dancers and Carlos Gardel!! If anyone has some travel suggestions please send my way!

Happy 2010!!

2010-01-05T10:20:00.001-08:00

I had a great time over the holidays visiting family in Alabama, Florida and an awesome NYE in Savannah, GA.!! 2010 feels great so far- lots of new changes I'm super excited about! I'm really loving Atlanta right now. Chilly weather, new neighborhood, new places to explore and I'm feeling really inspired! Happy New Year everyone!

Summer thoughts on a cold winter day...

2009-12-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Well, hello again!...I found some pictures I took this summer in Orlando,FL. During the Disney World trip, my dad surprised us with an airboat tour! Totally a great time, wonderful breeze and warm sun while flying over still black water... I noticed how perfect and mirror like the water was. Luckily we went on a beautiful sunny day with lots of fluffy clouds. I took some pictures of the sky and trees reflecting from the water- I flipped some of the pics around and I love the eery look they created, almost alien/outer space like.

Michael and Susan's wedding...

2009-08-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful wedding! My sister and I might need to go into the wedding business after all the fun we had working on her wedding. She did everything, with a little help from me... ;) ! We really realized some hidden talents!

1. Bridesmaids... Susan picked out the colors for her wedding Royal/Aqua Blue and Magenta

2. Flowers... We picked up tropical flowers from the Dekalb Farmer's Market and made our own bouquets and arrangements throughout the reception area.

3. Programs... Designed and printed wedding programs, attached to wicker fans so guest could cool off in the heat

4. Bridesmaids necklaces... bought supplies at a local bead show and made a small keepsake to wear during the wedding

5. The Bride in a beautiful Spanish lace gown

6. The Cake...yummy... I think my Dad did the decorating- Great Job!!

7. Reception... Tables were decorated with bright magenta orchids, submerged in water and topped with floating candles

8. The Groom and Groomsmen sported bright blue ties

9. Groomsmen corsage... Susan made these with seastars, sanddollars and ribbon

Photos: Norman Photography

Bargins...

2009-08-12T20:45:00.001-07:00

Wanted to share some recent thrifting finds! I found a great felt hat, awesome brass belts ( check out the little bow- my fav!), black leather skirt, red high waist shorts, and some acid wash high waisted jeans ( perfect for cut-off shorts!) I'm lovin the acid wash these days!!?!!

Heading to Disney...

2009-07-22T13:23:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to Disney World this weekend!! Whoop Whoop- I'm excited, I haven't been since I was four!? It will be an action packed weekend- first heading to my dad's company party where we get chased by older men and sip on Hennesy and Courvoisier in hottubs...yes, I'm serious... After that a wholesome stop at Epcot! Ah, memories... ;)

Here is my dream outfit for Disney... I would love to have this Gold Star Crown! How precious, I think I'll have to make one when I get home- Style o Sight

Next, a classic Mickey Mouse tee paired with some striped cutoff shorts (I think I had these in 4th grade) Turnedout

Finally, ahhh, my love, Jeffery Campbell blue satin ribbon shoes! Aren't these great- they kinda give me a Cinderella feel.

All this outfit is missing is a magic wand!

Georgia Campin...

2009-07-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

Loving some Beach Boys lately... Country Air

Wow! Who knew camping in Georgia, in JULY could actually workout! Well I thought I was in Tennessee the whole weekend, heh...We had Amazing weather this past weekend, nice and breezy and even a little chilly- here are a few pics from Pigeon Mountain, Rocktown, a Woodland Glowstick Rave and some Camels near Dalton, GA!

Going Coconuts Again!!

2009-07-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

I found two great Coconut Flour recipes this weekend- Coconut Almond Cookies and Coconut Carrot Muffins! Yummy! Well this is my second attempt with the cookies, they tend to come out a bit dry so I've altered the recipe a bit and added a bit of almond milk and dark chocolate bits. The muffins on the other hand are so freakin GOOD! I found this original recipe on Elana's Pantry, a gluten free blog, she has a ton of great recipes, I did alter the recipe a teeny bit, I didn't have butter, the syrup or currants but mine turned out just great! Any one know any good egg substitutes? Here are the recipes:

Gluten Free Carrot Mini Muffins
¼ cup coconut flour
¼ teaspoon celtic sea salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
5 stevia packets
1 teaspoon cinnamon, ground
3 eggs
¼ cup coconut oil
¼ almond milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup carrots, grated
¼ cup raisons

In a medium bowl, combine coconut flour, salt, baking soda,
stevia and cinnamon
In a large bowl, blend together eggs, oil, almond milk and vanilla
Blend dry ingredients into wet, then fold in carrots and raisons
Grease a mini muffin tin with oil and then dust with coconut flour
Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of batter into each greased mini muffin cup
Bake at 350° for 18 minutes. Makes about 2 dozen mini muffins
Cool and serve

Coconut Almond Cookies
½ sifted coconut flour
½ cup chopped almonds, lightly toasted
5 stevia packets
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup coconut oil
¼ cup almond milk
4 eggs
¾ teaspoon almond extract
1½ cups grated or flaked coconut
2 tablespoons dark chocolate bits

Preheat oven to 175C (350F). Put almonds in an oven safe pan and bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and let cool. Mix together coconut oil, stevia, salt, eggs, almond milk and almond extract. Stir in flour, coconut, chocolate and toasted almonds. Let batter rest for 4 to 5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly. Drop batter in spoon-size mounds 1 inch apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 190 Degree C (375F) for 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool slightly and remove from cookie sheet. Makes about 2 dozen cookies.

Woodsy dreams ...

2009-07-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

Ahhh...really craving a woodland adventure and photo op! Hopefully a hot summer camping trip will lend some opportunity. Anyone know of some cool Georgia campsites near Acworth??

On another note...I'm feeling more like myself again and I'm getting overwhelmed with some new ideas for projects! If I could only manage these brain waves and my time better! I'm REALLY excited though! More on that later...

Catching my eye...

2009-07-03T13:52:00.001-07:00

Here is a collection of web findings that have inspired me this week... I'm really loving dry, sun kissed desert imagery and the pattern and colors of Tsumori Chisato. Also, I've been a bit obsessed with the Beatles love songs and Black Moth Super Rainbow lately-- I've got a broken heart and some newly opened eyes, turning some dusty pages over and hoping to find a new direction for my life- A bad experience, something right out of a movie, this happened for a reason, all I can do is laugh at the ridiculousness...

Remember this...

2009-06-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

I can't explain it but I saw something here I need to remember...

richard misrach Untitled #517-02, 2002

Great idea...

2009-06-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

This caught my eye today over at Red Jet Whistle- What a great idea!! I always run into tacky framed posters/paintings at the thrift store and this would be a great way to turn them into something cool and actually pleasing to the eye! I'm thinking of trying this in some neon hues, possibly pink or chartreuse- now I just need to find the perfect picture- I would love to find a tacky dream catcher or Indian themed print and splash it with a burst of electric paint!

Lovin Miami...

2009-05-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

Just returned from an Excellent trip to Miami, and shall I say again... I FREAKIN loved it!! I loved the salsa sounds from every corner, the coconuts in the trees, the ocean breeze, the vibrant flowers, the spicy flavors, and of course the ART DECO!! Loved it...even though we happened to plan our trip during Urban Beach Week- I still loved it, and happened to witness some extra flavor and a few apple bottoms on screaming motorcycles down Ocean Dr.--Here are my favorite shots from wandering about...

Yes please! Green swimming pool...

2009-05-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

Wooah! I stumbled upon these over at Inhabitat today... Just for a mental note, I need one of these one day!! Even just a tiny one will do. :) Apparently you can even change an existing pool into a green pool by adding the filtering rocks and plants to the sides! How cool!! Yes, must remember this...

Congrats Susan and Michael!!

2009-05-05T19:50:00.000-07:00

My sister is definitely the star of my blog these days with all of the wedding preparations. It has been a blast and I can't believe the wedding is in 39 days! I've really enjoyed posting about it and hope I can continue to post more projects and pics while we all get ready for the big day! I was lucky enough to design a wedding logo for the couple that will be used on everything from invites, thank you cards, party favors and much more...Also, this past weekend I took some engagement shots and had a blast! I'm glad I got to work with such a fun couple on my first engagement shoot ever- Poor Michael had an allergic reaction to the grass but was a trouper the whole day! I have so many favorites, here are just a few!!

Yummies...

2009-05-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

I'm totally coconuts for coconuts right now!! I've been researching natural healing techniques for over a year now and have recently discovered the power of coconuts! It's a magical fruit and has so many health benefits for skin, digestion, energy, and balancing your mood. I've been cooking alot with coconut oil and continue to discover new products to use everyday. Sorry, this is starting to sound like an ad but trust me it comes from the heart. :) Anyways, I've yet to post many findings on food and I love to cook so maybe every now and then I'll share a recipe.

Today I combined some recipes I found in a book on Cooking with Coconuts and Stevia... I've altered my diet a bunch in the past year and I'm ultimately leaning toward the Vegan side of things...I'm taking my time...I've stopped eating dairy, except for every once in a while- holidays kill me...Now I'm slowly limiting any meat in my diet and any overly processed products...I'm sure I'll still have a little of each again in the future- I love food and trying new resturants so I can't imagine religiously sticking to any particularly strict diet...soooo- enough ramblin, the recipe today was so simple and delicious!!

Quinoa Cake with Rhubarb and Coconut Spread

This was so easy and can be made with any fruit you like and Quinoa or Couscous.

First, I added a cup of Quinoa to a boiling pot of 2cups water, dash of salt, teaspoon Stevia powder tablespoon lemon juice.
After the Quinoa is cooked, place in at the bottom of a dish and sit aside.

And now for the Fruit Spread...
You can use any fruits you like, I chose:

1 cup chopped Rhubarb
1/2 cup Raisons
1/2 cup Raspberries
1/2 cup Coconut milk
Dash of Cinnamon
3 to 4 packets Stevia Powder

Saute ingredients in a tablespoon of coconut oil for about 7 min...
Add Fruit Spread to the set Quinoa, top with Coconut flakes and chill for about an hour...Enjoy!!

Damn I Love Chartreuse!!!

2009-04-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

I love it! I love it!!! Aren't these gorgeous!? I picked them up at the Dekalb Farmers Market last weekend, bright chartreuse mums and some Bird of Paradise! I love these colors together. I was actually doing a test for my sister- FYI, the Bird of Paradise lasted about three days, I took these pics about five days after I opened the petals...

Surprise!!! ;)

2009-04-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend- we had an excellent time throwing my sister a "Surprise" Marie Antoinette themed bachelorette party in Atlanta, W Midtown Hotel!! It was so fun and I really can't believe we pulled it off!! I had to sneak away during the Dogwood festival to set up the hotel rooms. It was really tricky but totally worth it!! Haha-best of all my sister actually believed us when we told her there was a bar on the 19th floor, she was so confused! We also had the best entertainment, free drinks, dancing, and a stripper--For Free baby!! Here are some crafty pics including the most ridiculous bachelorette hat, because I love you soo much Susan, thanks for being a great sport!! :)

Sweet wedding birds cake hat!!

Amy made some excellent "Starry Night Cupcakes"...Feather Masks...The Girls...Invite (Marie Antoinette theme!!)

This poor gal fell off the table shortly after, I hope the camera flash didn't startle her...

Whiskey Park, lovely mirrors!

Next stop...MIAMI!!

I Want it!!

2009-04-10T07:19:00.000-07:00

Aren't these colors amazing!! I'm totally obsessed with neon hues mixed with black leather and soft pastel, mint greans and peaches!! I need to find some bright neon dye! Anyone know where I can find this stuff!?

I think these scarfs would look awesome with those mint green skinny jeans I almost bought at H&M and some tough black leather ankle boots... :) Maybe I'll have to grab a pair next time!

Rain or shine...

2009-03-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

Yay!! It's finally here... training since January. Most of my friends haven't seen much of me lately- This is a goal that I really wanted and I needed to achieve. I honestly haven't felt much like myself for a few years now. My mind has been consumed by a problem that I have become obsessed with...Psoriasis...I hope I am on the right track to getting healthy and finding myself again...I know this sounds pathetic and cheesy but I really have lost myself in this and trying to make it go away. You may not even notice it on me, but I see it and it hurts and makes me feel terrible. I remember how I used to daydream and who I was before this got really bad and now how this problem has taken over my life and it has become all I think about... it just sucks-- but I am very lucky, it could be so much worse. I haven't been on medication for a year and it has really started to get better because of diet and natural healing choices...

Chin up...Half Marathon here I come!! :)

SP '09

2009-03-24T12:29:00.001-07:00

I try and celebrate Spring Break each year...even though my college days seem more like "way back when"...Anywho, it's hard not to join in on the fun when several of your best gal pals are teachers!! I won't hold it against any of you, I'll just tag along!

This year I joined my sister and her fiance for a quick trip to Florida. We had a few places in mind, but pretty much just winged it! And it worked out great- I'm such a planner and it kills me to not have some things scheduled out. Luckily we discovered some new places and always had a place to rest our heads!

Day 1
Mariana, FL.
Florida Caverns
Arrowhead RV Camp...a diamond in the rough...

She mooned me in the caverns!

First campfire of the trip!

Day 2
St. George Island State Park

Yummy campfire treats!! Some of this was grabbed by a raccoon...oops
Ever had a campfire brownie in an orange peel!!? Best thing EVER!!

St. George Island "Dogs Allowed" Beach!!

Beans had too much fun!

Viva Miami!!!

2009-02-24T16:45:00.000-08:00

I NEED A VACATION!!!! AhAHAAHAHAAHHHHHAAAAAAAHHHHH.....phew.. Luckily I can see a great escape in the future- Several beach trips, a beach wedding and MIAMI- Heck yeah baby!! I'm so excited to celebrate my beautiful sister's bachelorette party in Miami!! I've never been and I'm wondering if this is gonna be another city of my dreams- Tropical climate, beautiful beaches, history, Latin culture, ART DECO!! I'm actually scared about the abundant photo ops to come!! hehe

We still have lots of planning ahead so if anyone has any suggestions PLEASE pass them along...I have to be careful sharing too much info, in case she is reading this ... ;)

I found some great vintage shots via flickr today- Some girls in Miami in the 40's...

And one possible venture in Miami will be the nude beach-Yippee! I mean heck why not!? I love finding old pics like these- girls just goofing around like my friends and I would these days. Sometimes you forget your grannies could get down too! :)

Another man's treasure...

2009-02-14T13:33:00.000-08:00

Recent "thrifting" finds...

I love this feather beret!!! 5 bucks!

Lovely fake Channel/ quilted bag and Bright red bow bag!! 3 bucks!

Black/ Gold chiffon skirt...hoping to fashion this into a high waist skirt!! 7 bucks!

Floral skirt...My mom fashioned an awesome high waisted skirt for me! I love it!! 3 bucks!

Sweet red and blue folk/tribal style chiffon scarf! 3 bucks!

I'm loving quirky patterns these days! I want to turn this into something, maybe a new shirt/ different style! 3 bucks!

xoxo...

2009-02-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Be mine...

2009-02-12T12:55:00.000-08:00

Ahhh...Valentine plans, hmmm... If I could have a dreamy Valentine I would love to spend the day in the park. First, greeted with a bouquet of poppies. Next, maybe play a nice game of tennis, and a breezy bike ride in the park, long hair blowing in the wind. I'd bring an assortment of candies and my grandma's best chocolate cherry cake!! hint, hint...haha

Pucker up!

2009-01-22T06:59:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh!! I love this dress! This is the cutest thing ever!! I'm totally loving Big bows and hearts and over the top cutesy things lately...then I see this amazing dress! Such a clever print!

Dress is available at Topshop

Dreamy...

2009-01-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon some exciting jewelry today! These are from Stephanie Simek...

www.stephaniesimek.com

Most of her pieces are made from fragile findings, even human hair!!
I would love to be able to mix actual teeny bits of nature in my jewelry, just not sure how well they would hold up. These are very sweet and dreamy, helping me get my gears turning!!

I really love these pussy willow earrings!! Something so sweet mixed with a harsh, dark metal! I love the combo and definitely a big trend these days!

Feelin the love...

2009-01-14T06:09:00.000-08:00

I just celebrated my 27th birthday and I had a blast! I decided to check out some good 'ol Splatter Cinema at the Plaza Theater!! It was pretty hilarious and I'm looking forward to catching the Zombie flick next month. My parents came up over the weekend and treated me with some BBQ :) and bead shopping!! I loaded up on some materials that I'd mentioned in a previous post, hopefully I'll be able to start a new line with more silver and now thinking a "space and dreamy" theme...

I also checked out the Kudzu Antique Mart in Decatur and the monthly Scott's Antique Market- I was blown away! How did I not know about these!!?? I might have to camp out or get a hotel room next month!! I scored a great deal on some maracasite rings!! I've always wanted some, very Art Deco feel with onyx...so lovely! I got three- ;) They look similar to these...

As for resolutions-I decided for 2009 and being 27, I'd like to adopt my friend, Kristen's 2009 motto! "I do what I want"- haha
And if doing what I want entails running through the desert, wearing a furry pink costume...Well dang it, "I do what I want!" and don't give me no beef!

Hope...

2009-01-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

-Desiderata
Max Ehrmann

Sign sign everywhere a sign...

2009-01-06T06:35:00.000-08:00

Well I happen to like this sign and the idea behind it... Check out

http://yourmessagehere.typepad.com/my_weblog/

Goodbye 2008... It's been a good one!

2008-12-31T11:20:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to Everyone!! 2008 has been great, I feel it was a great year for many successes and hopefully many more new beginnings for 2009!! I guess I will add a few resolutions, maybe after my 2hr. car ride to Alabama...usually singing very loudly and thinking too much will lead to new ideas and goals...

See you in 2009. ;)

Flashback...

2008-12-29T12:17:00.000-08:00

So I don't know where this has come from but I'm totally diggin some 70's thread art these days! I'm so inspired by the patterns and colors! I would love to incorporate some in a painting, maybe on some old wood!! And of course with a more modern update of color- neons and rainbows!! I even thought about adding some as an art installation in my room, sort of like a headboard...Love it!!

Home Sweet Home...

2008-12-19T08:17:00.000-08:00

I would absolutely love to live in a simple pre-fab home! Lately, I've seen alot of recycled shipping crate studios and today I stumbled upon this...
www.lot-ek.com

So cute! And the pool, what a great idea!! Love it- I think I could fit this whole setup in the overgrown parking lot behind my house, I'll have to ask the landlord!

Just wishing...

I love this outdoor movie screen- Yes please!
www.belzbergarchitects.com

And here is another awesome shipping crate home/studio sandwhiched in a tiny alley - nice use of space!

sculp(IT)

First sell!!

2008-11-29T14:59:00.000-08:00

Hip Hip Hooray! I was having some doubts about my Etsy shop... but all of a sudden today I got a burst of good luck! I got an email from a friend in Iowa. She commented on a necklace in a Storque article on Etsy. Later she realized she knew the seller, it was me!! There was an article on vintage, military finds and they featured a vintage brass button necklace from my shop. I made my first Etsy sell and gained a bunch of new customers. Unfortunately, I had to turn down a sell to Switzerland. If sells pick up I may venture into international shipping, but for now I'll stick to the U.S.A. Here is a picture of the Storque Article!!

Funnies...

2008-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

Some posters I'm lovin...

Gettin Crafty

2008-11-16T11:41:00.000-08:00

The ICE craft show was a blast!! It was a long day and alot of work but I'm really glad I was able to participate and spend 11hrs. with my pal Amy!! It was great seeing all my friends and a surprise visit from my mom and sister!! Thanks everyone!!!

Recent inspirations...

2008-11-14T07:01:00.000-08:00

I'm wrapping things up for the ICE show this weekend, I really love the fall line and I think the brass and embroidered felt will work well for the season. I've already started thinking about a Spring/Summer line!! I think I will jump into the world of silver, take a break from the brass!! I've pulled together a few images that have inspired me...

I love the colorful smokey photo above, soft and haunting...It lead me to gather some material images for a line of silver jewelry.

I'm gonna try mixing silver, copper, pyrite, crystals, soft peach hues, and burnt woods! I also found some shell beads that have a similar smokey pattern like the picture above. I really want to tackle PMC- precious metal clay and create some of my own quirky pendants and chain links. I think pastel leather cord and satin ribbons will add some softness to the pieces!

Macaroonie Loonie....

2008-11-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

So I find myself googling "Macaroons" and gazing at colorful images of fluffy cuteness from time to time...I guess it's time to tackle a recipe! I've never had a macaroon, not even sure if I would like them, but I'd probably force myself!! They just make me so happy- I mean, Look At Them! What's not to like?

Maybe I'll try for the holidays! Would be a nice gift...Really makes me think of Paris, I've never been there either, I think my heart would explode...Although I'm sure it would be worth it!

Feels good!

2008-10-31T07:16:00.000-07:00

Dazzling hues

2008-10-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

Lately I've become a bit obsessed with neon hues, rainbow patterns and color wheels used on anything. I came across this picture on fffound...not really sure where it's from but I love it!! Also a pretty cool Illustrator...Charles Keeping...

I love the bright colors in these illustrations and the faint rainbow overlays!! Awesome!

ICE

2008-10-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

My friend Amy and I signed up for a booth at ICE...Indie Craft Experience...Nov. 15th 11-6pm.! Come check out our stuff- Amy will be selling handmade aprons and I'm selling jewelry and scarves made from vintage materials...here is a little sampler of our handmade goods!!

Channeling my Roots...

2008-10-07T13:06:00.000-07:00

I guess the upcoming Atlanta Scandinavian Festival has stirred up a fascination with my Swedish roots. Sadly, I'll be out of town and I'm going to miss the event, I was hoping to snag my first dala horse to start a collection!!

I've always been in love with these bright orange horses, the bold patterns and flowers they are decorated with. My grandmother has several pieces scattered around her house, even sweet little Swedish decorated coffee mugs. It all reminds me of my great grandfather Carl, he lived to be 103! I remember visiting him in Kansas for his 100th birthday. He was wearing a sweet little red scarf and nibbling on ginger cookies. He told us he thought he had died that day because he woke up to a bright light, he thought it was Jesus coming for him, however it happened he had left his curtains open that night and he was awakened by the bright sun shining in his face... :)

I recently stumbled upon some beautiful Swedish Monk's cloth embroidery patterns that have really inspired me! These patterns are so cool, I would love to make some of my own using different materials and cranking the color up a few notches to some neon hues!

Shiny Disco Ball...

2008-10-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

Halloween!! The ideas are coming, I just hope I will find enough places to wear them...I was looking through some vintage dresses last night and in the back of my closet I found a crazy sparkled dress that I wanted to wear for my disco b-day but I ended up choosing a bright red dress...It inspired a costume idea!! A Shiny Disco Ball!

I imagine spinning in circles in the center of the dance floor, while everyone slow dances around me! haha -- here are some ideas to accomplish the vision... I think making an enormous mirrored dome hat would be hilarious!!

Times for thriftin...

2008-10-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

The gas situation isn't getting any better, I'm hoping to force myself on a bike...just a little scared of tackling Ponce de Leon, or being tackled for that matter.

I've found some clever uses of recycled materials via the Musuem of Arts and Design, NY -Second Lives- exhibit! I really want to make some of these!! Especially the eyeglass light and the stack of drawers! So cool!!

http://madmuseum.org

Finally...some jewelry for you gals out there!

2008-09-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

Yay!! I'm pretty excited ;)...I've finally got my etsy shop up and running! I have three necklaces for sell and I've ordered a ton of new supplies so hopefully I will continue to produce more "dancefloor tested and approved" jewelry!

Soon to come...Vintage metal button pendant necklaces and more felt bead necklaces!

This is so much fun- especially the product photography and styling! I just love looking for ways to show off my creations in a fun and flirty way- We'll see if it works...lots more additions and promoting to do!

Check out the shop here....

Etsy
Buy Handmade
neonshimmyshop

Loves it!!

2008-09-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this website the other day...
www.theselby.com...and I love it! Very cool, takes you inside the homes of several artist, designers, musicians, creatives, eccentric personalities...

Yeah, and I created one of my own! haha- take a look at my world...

Gonna give it a shot...

2008-09-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

I've decided it's about time I learn to sew! I have a box of old vintage dresses and I'm quite a collector of many I can't wear or won't wear until I cut them shorter...which usually ruins them! So I'm taking a plunge and I'm gonna do it right this time! I found a fabulous pattern on ebay, which should be on its way to my mailbox... I've also bid on some crazy fabrics!

I'm gonna try this pattern in a shorter version, I promised a long "midnight blue" for Dryden! haha- I have a gorgeous white chiffon fabric with printed gold leaves, I think it will be perfect for this pattern!

I am so in love with Disco dresses!! I've found several online and studied the construction, doesn't seem too complicated...Here are a few others I am going to try to make!! Wish Me Luck...and maybe I'll make you something someday!

Costume ideas!!

2008-09-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner so I have to start brainstorming for some great ideas!! I've thought of a few so far:

1. Piece of fruit...I saw a hilarious pattern (I can't find the pic any more) of a group of people dressed as large pieces of fruit. This isn't that original but the picture really cracked me up and I imagined getting a large group of people to dress like a piece of fruit and then invade the dance floor!! How funny would a bunch of fruit breakin it down on the dance floor be!!!

2. Sad dog in an embarrassing costume... yeah, you know you've seen it happen and maybe even participated! (Sorry Beans and Dali) A poor pup dressed up like a bumble bee, ballerina, princess, wizard...you get the idea- So I was thinking it would be pretty funny to dress up like a dog in a ridiculous costume and make sad puppy dog faces all night, and hide in corners, drink away the embarrassment!! Take a look at these sweet examples!!

Champagne kisses and Caviar Dreams...

2008-08-21T12:27:00.000-07:00

Just a dream, but if I had some real dough $$$...I'd love to buy this place and turn it into an awesome Museum of Modern Art in Atlanta! We need one dang it! And not just some small galleries around town...A real Modern Art Museum! I often drive by this building and imagine the possibilities, I love the style and the location is perfect, located downtown near the Marta station. Ahhh, it would be nice! Just imagine a place like the MOMA's PS1 in Atlanta. A place to enjoy modern art and a host for amazing DJ sets and parties, studio space, classes, a cool cafe at the top- Any Sugardaddies wanna invest in my dream?

View Larger Map

Pics from PS1- LCD soundsystem...

P.S.- I'm out there somewhere...Great disco!!

All Dried up...

2008-08-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

I think the final summer months have been getting me down, slowing me down and quite frankly I've felt creatively all dried up...I noticed a similar dried up and withered appearance on my hopeful garden, they too have nearly survived...I decided to document the dried leaves and spiderwebs that had taken over my lovely dahlia. Even though the dried leaves were taking over and the spider had confidently set up a new home, I could see that life remained. I brushed off the dead leaves and carefully cleaned some of the webs and moved my dahlia to the back porch. I hope she'll like it there, lots more sun and company...God, I'm a nerd- Anyways the pictures turned out really cool, haunting- I love it!! And I finally feel a positive change in the air!!

Great idear!!

2008-07-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

I saw these pics on another blog today...Yeondoo Jung

This artist recreated children's drawings into photographs!! I love them!

personal reminder....

2008-07-07T11:50:00.000-07:00

I need to remember this sight...

http://www.lulu.com/

I have so many photos from trips and no great way to organize them, until now! I found a great site for publishing your own hardcover photo books and if you want you can also try and sell them! I think it would be great for prints and paintings too, if I can ever get around to creating again!! I could have my own personal coffee table book collection, I can't wait to get started...I have about 40 rolls of film from my Ireland trip several years ago and they are just collecting dust!

Or how about a Finger puppet travel book!!
These are some pics from a recent San Fran trip:

Summertime in the Big Apple!!

2008-06-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited! Planning a trip to NY for this summer, I've never been in the summer but I have heard it gets reeeaaall HOT but it is a whole lotta fun!! So I need to start a to do list of POSSIBLE ventures in the city:

1. Friday night- Coney Island Fireworks

2. Saturday- P.S.1- with LCD Soundsystem
http://www.brooklynvegan.com/archives/2008/06/ps1_warm_up_200_1.html

Saturday-Water Taxi beach
http://www.watertaxibeach.com

3. Sunday- David Bryne Installation
http://www.creativetime.org/programs/archive/2008/byrne

Sunday- Mccarren Pool Concert- MGMT
http://www.jellynyc.com/tools/event-calendar

4. Monday- Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo lofts

5. Tues- Mccarren Pool Movie?
http://summerscreen.org/home.html

6. Wed.... afternoon bus to D.C

7. Thurs...DC until Sat. 14hr. car ride back to ATL with my parents! :)

And the list goes on- I can't wait!! Museums and Botanical Gardens, Jewelry Supply stores!

Travelin....with rising gas prices!

2008-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

So, I took a trip today...yep, after lunch I went to San Fransisco with my friend Ellen! Courtesy of Google street view- we revisited a few of our favorite places and didn't have to spend a penny on $4.12 gas!! Take a look!

1st stop---Rainbow Tunnel, Golden Gate Bridge

View Larger Map

2nd stop---Peju Wine Provence, Napa Valley

View Larger Map

3rd stop--- Hidden Murals, Mission St.

View Larger Map

4th stop---Cabrillo Hwy

View Larger Map

Wow!! I love this thing!!

P.S.-Click the pics, especially the Hidden Murals! You can travel around by clicking the arrows!

Nice jams...

2008-05-20T12:35:00.000-07:00

I found a great internet radio site, it's actually from American Apparel. Fun to work to...especially the Disco!!

Sorry I can't get the link thing to EvER WOrK!@#!....

http://www.viva-radio.com/mix

Wine and Dye...

2008-05-18T14:08:00.001-07:00

My friend Amy hosted a wine and tie dye party last week. The final projects turned out AWESOME and I think we'll have to do this again! I tried the tie dye on a green dress, blue tank, and white t-shirt-check them out...

My wish list...

2008-05-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

I hope one day I'll find the money and the time this little beauty deserves! For now I'm just adding it to my wish list in case there are any sugar daddies reading my blog...

Warm sun...

2008-05-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

I took some pictures from my porch as soon as the weather started to warm up...

NeonShimmyShop coming soon...

2008-05-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

Hopefully sooner than later I'll be selling some jewelry on etsy. I started a store in January (no items listed yet) and I'm working on getting really organized before I totally jump in! It's taking a while ehhh... I've been overly inspired lately and I hope this will be a profitable escape. I love searching for, collecting, and buying vintage jewelry/chains/findings...so I've just decided to continue to do so and sell it! Here is the link to my shop, up and runnin soon!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5525976

Garden Party time...

2008-05-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

With all this GREAT weather, I've been thinkin about garden parties! So girls get out your jump suits and rompers-haha, maybe...I found the most fabulous jumpsuits on ebay today and it inspired a hilarious party idea! Imagine being in a room full of sassy jumpsuits-sounds like a good time right? The blue jean romper makes me gag a bit so those are not allowed!

I was at the Inmann park festival last Saturday when I discovered tie dye is all the rage again, this also inspired a party idea- perhaps a Wine and Dye party...The last picture could tie it all together though!! A tie dyed romper, and I know exactly where to find those...The EVERYTHINGS A DOLLAR store in PCB!! Darn it, I'll have to grab a few on my next trip there!!!

Big Red...

2008-05-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

I bought a great dress on ebay today! I saw it and instantly feel in love!! Kinda disco/80's/rockabilly style = perfection... Here is a sneak peak of the fabric:

I've really grown to love red. I didn't care for it much until I heard it was my great grandma's favorite color, Mama Mattie. She was sooo cute, a sweet little lady from Tennessee that would wake us up at 5:30 in the morning (in her 80's) slinging pots and pans and cooking us eggs and ham. I remember she always had red fingernails and bright red lipstick...I guess the dress kinda reminds me of her :)

I like these...

2008-04-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

Well I stumbled upon some great looks- I just love this white dress and belt paired with some leather warrior wedges, and this color block cardigan, kinda reminds me of a vintage dress I found and wore while prancing around wine country in March!!
(I think I looked like a super hero but it was fun!!)

Check these dresses out at- www.asos.com

Chartreuse Summer!

2008-04-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

Spring?/Summer/spring/winter/Summer/SpIn@g!!! Is in the air...?

I'm confused with the weather but equally ready to begin some summer gardening...Let me transform into an elderly lassie for a minute and tell you what I've got cookin' in the flower beds so far...

I just planted some giant sunflowers, teddy bear sunflowers, mixed sunflowers, and CHARTREUSE zinnias!! (I'm very excited!)

I guess I should explain my obsession for chartreuse...well I LOVE it, my favorite color I guess and it really started last spring with the extreme pollen blown all over ATL, I realized I was drawn to it like a moth is drawn to a flickery bulb. I thought it was so beautiful and very inspiring, I just wanted to roll around in it and cover everything with the gorgeous shade...maybe even a good name for my first born, could be worse Deco and Chrysalis are other choices(poor kid right?)...Oh god why am I talking about babies---so yeah the point is I Really like chartreuse and I'm excited about summer gardening and these awesome solar powered lights I got from Ikea!

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60132031

Photoshelter

2008-04-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

Well the widget is too big for my blog side panels so I'll just add this to a post...

PhotoShelter: Fresh Stock Photos Served Daily

Viva el viejo blog!

2008-04-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hello again Blog...I started a blog on a whim a few years ago and totally forgot about it, I searched and searched and finally rediscovered the long lost CoyMusicBox and realized I could not log in due to a forgotten password and unavailable e-mail address. So I've revived the only two post and changed my title a bit- Welcome to CoyMusicaBox...haha

Bringin the past into the future...http://coymusicbox.blogspot.com/

I've decided to post these again in my new blog...I feel like I've opened a time capsule of some sort, reliving the thoughts I had a few years ago-

Wednesday, July 06, 2005

 A bit random... but if I had to guess what heaven would be like, I'd say at the snap of your finger you could re-live any moment in your life. Not really changing what happened, but just being able to be there agian. It would have to be the most beautiful moments, with all the same surroundings and people. So for the sake of never forgetting I'm making a list:

Sitting on the beach in Brighton, England, with that hot brit "Rosie"- nickname because of his pink cheeks...Watching the burned carnival pier, barely standing over the water...Flock of birds flying in and out of the cracked windows...sunset...cool breeze

Having a random tea party with Ellen& others...one of the first summer days of '05, yet a light spring breeze...wisteria blooming...raspberry almond scones...great conversation...enjoying my backyard...riding a pirate bicycle...later walking around the neighborhood and seeing millions of the first fireflies of the summer, glittering in the trees.

Riding in the back of a truck all around Hawaii...especially the road to the north shore... dark red dirt...tall green grass...bright blue skies...pineapple plantation...sunburn...salty bleached hair...bikinis...best shaved ice in the world...watching surfers...sea turtles...really strong coffee...wanting to tell Bill how lucky he was, almost crying because we were leaving...smell of flowers everywhere...

Remembering small conversations with strangers that changed my life...Riding on the train in Ireland...chatting with an old lady that bought us tea...telling her about our traveling misfortunes..."The worst experiences make the best memories."

Picking fresh peaches from the peach grove with my dad...brilliantly sunny day...the sun was creeping through the leaves, almost blinding...very quiet trees...branches blowing in the wind...eating fresh peaches from the trees...just driven back from Huntsville to visit my grandpa in the hospital...he had just survived a heartattack...

And the list goes on....

Monday, May 09, 2005

       Brain, n. An apparatus with which we think that we think.- Ambrose Bierce     

posted by CoyMusicBox at 12:55 PM